Course Overview

The Introduction to Kayaking course is designed as a short program emphasizing safety, enjoyment and skill acquisition for entry level individuals in public, private, and commercial settings.

Note: The use of spray skirts is not appropriate for Level 1: Introduction to Kayaking courses.

Course Prerequisites

• Acknowledgment of personal compliance with the ACA Essential Eligibility Criteria (EEC)
• Agree to comply with the ACA Code of Conduct
• No prior paddling experience or training is required to participate in this course

Course Duration

The course duration should be adjusted to best fit the needs and goals of the participants. Suggested time: Half a day to one day (4-8 hours).

Course Location / Accessible Venues

Flat water, protected from wind, waves, and outside boat traffic, with current less than 0.5 knots, and within swimming distance of shore.

Course Size

5 Participants : 1 Instructor; with an additional qualified assistant, the ratio can be 10 : 2.

Instructor

Level 1 or higher ACA Instructors within their discipline.

Possible Course Outline: Duration 8 Hours

The following is a general summary of course content for the Level 1: Introduction to Kayaking course. The content covered and sequence of instruction should be adjusted to best fit the participant’s needs, class location, and time allowance. The course content includes the National On Water Standards for human powered craft. The full rubric for Level 1 can be found in the above link, pages 17-65.

Introduction, Expectations, and Logistics

• Welcome, introductions, paperwork
• Student and Instructor course expectations and limitations
• Course itinerary and site logistics
• Review waiver, assumption of risk, challenge by choice, medical disclosure
• About the ACA
• Life jacket policy (always wear on water)
• Appropriate personal behavior
  • No alcohol / substance abuse
  • Proper etiquette on and off the water
  • Respect private property
  • Practice Leave No Trace ethics

Preparing to Depart

• Discuss current weather conditions, forecasts, and other environmental hazards (water, weather, wind, waves)
• Evaluate hazards to navigation
• Discuss importance of developing good judgment, group responsibility, and management
• Evaluate individual’s ability, water comfort, and confidence prior to trip
• Warm up to reduce injury